TEF Canada
Understand your results
How is the test evaluated?
The tests are assessed on the scale of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (levels A1 to C2). Level <A1 is awarded to candidates who do not demonstrate that they have achieved level A1.
Here you will find the expected skills for each CEFR level and for each test item.
The TEF score scale has been mapped to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), and TEF Canada certificates indicate the CLB level achieved for each test.
Reading and listening comprehension tests
The reading and listening comprehension tests are in the form of multiple choice questionnaires. Only one answer is possible.
The scale is as follows:
Correct answer = + 1 point
No answer / Wrong answer = 0 points
The total number of correct answers does not constitute the final score. This total is converted into a calibrated score that takes into account the differences in difficulty of the questions making up the test.
Written and oral expression tests
The written expression test consists of writing two everyday texts. It is assessed by two independent, trained and experienced assessors.
The oral expression test consists of two role-plays based on real-life situations. It is assessed by two independent examiners: the test leader and a second examiner, on the basis of the recording of the test.
Oral and written expression tests are assessed using standardized evaluation grids that include a set of criteria: communication skills, vocabulary, grammar, organization, fluency, etc.
The final score takes all these criteria into account. The results of these assessments are also converted into a calibrated score.
What level do I need to achieve on the TEF Canada?
For immigration to Canada
The minimum level required varies according to the program you are applying for. For example, a CLB level 7 is required for all tests in the Entrée Express program, while a CLB level 5 is required in the Mobilité Francophone program.
To find out the level required for each program, visit the Canadian IRCC website.
For citizenship procedures
CLB 4 level is required for the speaking and listening tests.
More information on the Canadian IRCC website.
How do I send my results to the IRCC's online portal?
To complete your results on your IRCC online profile, you must use the scores in the “Old score equivalence” column on your results certificate.
Please note:
The language proficiency test results form or certificate number is the number at the bottom left of your certificate.
The NIP is the second part of the certificate number, after the hyphen.
Can I submit an appeal?
You can submit an appeal within a maximum of 30 days from the date of issue of the results certificate.
You can find all the information you need on our website at this address.
Please note: your appeal request will only be considered in the event of an anomaly or serious malfunction during your test. It is therefore essential to inform your supervisor of your situation on the day of the test.
Le français des affaires and its partner centers do their utmost to ensure that the TEF tests are taken under the best possible conditions and with fairness between candidates.
The assessment procedure and criteria are the same for all candidates. Recordings of oral tests and written productions are always anonymous to our assessors (only the candidate’s number appears).
Did you notice a serious anomaly or malfunction during your test? In this case, we invite you to submit an appeal.